--- title: "Childcare Golden Square" url: https://www.communitykids.com.au/our-centres/childcare-golden-square description: "Get the best start to early learning with our child care and kindergarten programs at Community Kids Golden Square. Enquire today to secure a place." type: page date: 2024-08-01 modified: 2026-08-20 --- # Childcare Golden Square ## Community Kids Golden Square Places available [92/94 Specimen Hill Rd Golden Square VIC 3555](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=92%2F94+Specimen+Hill+Rd+Golden+Square+VIC+3555) [1800 411 604](tel:1800%20411%20604) [goldensquare@communitykids.com.au](mailto:goldensquare@communitykids.com.au) Monday - Friday 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM Daily fees before CCS Nursery $167.10 Toddler $167.10 Kindergarten $167.10 [Calculate your out-of-pocket cost](.g8-centre-fees) [4.6 /5 27 reviews](.g8-google-reviews) ## Enrolment availability The information below gives an indication of current availability at the centre. - Monday - Tuesday - Wednesday - Thursday - Friday Green – Places available now Orange – Limited availability   Availability can change quickly. For the most up-to-date information and advice, please contact our Family Support Team. [Book a tour](/book-a-tour?centre=community-kids-golden-square) [Enquire now](/enquire-now?centre=community-kids-golden-square) ## Childcare and Kindergarten in Golden Square, VIC Community Kids Golden Square offers long day care and a Kindergarten program for children aged 6 weeks to school age, conveniently located for families in Golden Square, Kangaroo Flat, Maiden Gully and Marong in Bendigo. #### Age-appropriate outdoor spaces Children spend time in two separate outdoor areas, including a dedicated space for babies and a larger playground for older children. This gives children room to play, move and explore in spaces suited to their age and stage. #### Stable and supportive team Our educator team provides a consistent environment where children feel safe, known and encouraged. Educators design experiences around each child’s development and interests, helping learning feel personal and familiar. #### Government-approved Kindergarten program Our kindergarten program is delivered by Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teachers. Children build independence, early literacy and social skills as they practise the routines and confidence they will use at school. #### Hey Dee Ho Music and Kelly Sports Children take part in weekly Hey Dee Ho Music and Kelly Sports sessions. These programs give children regular opportunities to build coordination, rhythm, movement skills and confidence through active play. #### Balanced meals prepared fresh each day Our in-house chef prepares breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and a late snack each day. Meals and snacks are planned for variety, with allergies, dietary requirements, preferences and cultural needs catered for. #### Family communication and daily essentials Nappies, wipes and everyday essentials are provided to help with children’s daily care. Families stay connected through regular conversations with educators and updates shared in our family app, including photos, routines, learning moments and centre news. ## Secure your place today Book a tour to experience the centre and confirm availability for your child. [Book a tour](/book-a-tour?centre=community-kids-golden-square) [Enquire now](/enquire-now?centre=community-kids-golden-square) ## Meet our Centre Manager Kara ### - * Diploma of Children's Services "My teaching style is guided by the belief that positive engagement fosters trust and confidence, which are crucial for a dynamic and supportive learning environment. " I began my career in early learning in 2008 and started working for Community Kids in 2023. Over the years, I have worked with and managed all age groups, served as an Educational Leader, and was an Assistant Manager before becoming a Centre Manager. I love helping families, children, and peers, and being able to make a positive impact in their lives. Throughout my career, I have learned that children thrive when they are given the opportunity to share their interests and have positive interactions. Engaging with children and building on their interests helps them expand their thinking and learning. My teaching style is guided by the belief that positive engagement fosters trust and confidence, which are crucial for a dynamic and supportive learning environment. When children feel trusted and supported, they gain the confidence to explore and learn through play and activities. Attending a dedicated early childhood education and care centre provides children with the opportunity to build strong, open relationships with peers their age, boosting their confidence in socialising and preparing them for larger groups before starting school. It also allows children to express their creativity in a structured environment. My team at Community Kids Golden Square is caring and respectful. We build strong relationships with families through open communication. I am always available to answer questions and provide support during orientations and daily interactions. I strive to support families in their decisions and help them find arrangements that suit their needs. I look forward to welcoming your family to our Golden Square early education centre. Read moreless ## Our innovative early learning programs At our early learning centre in Golden Square, our play-based curriculum is guided by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), supporting children to learn through play, exploration and discovery. #### Sustainability At our early learning centre, sustainability is a key focus. Children engage in gardening with our garden beds and vegetable patches, while educators guide them in using recyclable materials and practising water conservation. #### Social and emotional learning Children develop a strong sense of identity as they feel safe, secure and supported, building confidence, resilience and a positive sense of self. Through group activities, conversations and play, children learn to interact with others with care, empathy and respect, building positive relationships and friendships. #### Music and movement Our evidence-based Rhythm and Movement for Self-Regulation (RAMSR) program is designed to develop fundamental skills that help support children’s self-regulation, memory, and concentration. It is an innovative approach to holistic learning, development and well-being in early childhood. #### Independence and life skills Children develop autonomy, interdependence, resilience and a sense of agency through meaningful participation in everyday routines, such as preparing snack, caring for plants, and tidying shared spaces. ##### Book a tour to experience our centre today [Book a tour](/book-a-tour?centre=community-kids-golden-square) ## Age-appropriate early learning ### 6 weeks – 2 years Nursery ### Nursery 6 weeks – 2 years In our nursery environment, educators focus on building strong, secure and respectful relationships so babies feel safe, settled and supported as they explore the world around them. Children in this age group experience: - Responsive care and nurturing relationships that support emotional security and attachment - Sensory exploration through textures, sounds, music and movement - Early communication development through songs, stories, gestures and conversations - Tummy time and movement experiences that support physical development [Our nursery rooms](https://www.communitykids.com.au/childcare-and-early-education/nursery) ### 2 – 3 years Toddlers ### Toddlers 2 – 3 years Our toddler program encourages curiosity, independence and early social skills as children begin exploring the world with growing confidence. Children in this age group experience: - Play-based learning experiences that encourage curiosity and problem solving - Language-rich environments with storytelling, songs and conversations - Opportunities to build independence, such as self-help skills and routines - Social learning experiences that help children practise sharing, cooperation and empathy [Our toddler rooms](https://www.communitykids.com.au/childcare-and-early-education/toddlers) ### 3 – 5 years Kindergarten ### Kindergarten 3 – 5 years Our Government-approved Kindergarten program prepares children for school through engaging, play-based learning experiences that develop confidence, independence and a love of learning. Children in this age group will build: - Early literacy and numeracy skills through play-based activities, stories, songs and everyday routines - Problem solving and critical thinking through play-based projects and exploration - Collaboration and teamwork through group learning experiences - Self-help skills that support school routines, such as opening lunchboxes, looking after belongings and getting dressed independently [Free Kinder in Victoria](https://www.communitykids.com.au/family-information/funded-kindergarten-preschool/victoria) ## What a typical day looks like for your child ### Arrival at the centre Your child will be welcomed by our team of educators, who will ensure the morning transition from home to centre goes as smoothly as possible. On arrival, share information about your child’s specific needs for the day.   Next: Mealtimes ### Mealtimes Our centre chefs prepare a nutritious menu for your child to sit down and eat. This is a great time for everyone to share stories from the day. Educators model healthy eating practices, social behaviours and support children’s growing independence with mealtime routines. Previous: Arrival at the centre Next: Infant care ### Infant care If you have an infant, we spend one-on-one time with them to establish a connection. Educators talk gently and respond to babies’ cues. We use songs, games, and conversations to strengthen relationships and build language skills. Previous: Mealtimes Next: Play-based learning ### Play-based learning Your child is naturally curious. They want to learn and explore, which is why we teach through play-based learning. It supports language, motor skills, memory, emotions and social relationships. Educators plan play-based learning experiences based on children’s interests and goals. Previous: Infant care Next: Sleep, rest and relaxation ### Sleep, rest and relaxation We match routines to your child’s individual needs. Opportunities for rest and relaxation help make them feel safe. Play-based learning experiences are provided for older children who no longer don’t sleep in centre. Previous: Play-based learning Next: Heading home ### Heading home As your child prepares to head home, this is your opportunity to speak with our friendly educators about your child’s day and everything they learnt. We look forward to welcoming you back tomorrow. Previous: Sleep, rest and relaxation   ## Fees The Child Care Subsidy can reduce your daily out-of-pocket fee by up to 95% depending on your family’s entitlements. Nursery 0 - 2 years $167.10/day Toddler 2 - 4 years $167.10/day Kindergarten 4 - 5 years $167.10/day Step 1: Family Information & Financial State ### Child Care Subsidy Estimator Discover how much child care subsidy you may be entitled to by entering the fields below. #### 2026 3-Day Guarantee From 5th January 2026, based on the information you have entered, here's an estimate of your CCS entitlements and your out-of-pocket costs. Total Fees $0.00 Estimated CCS Fee Subsidy $0.00 Kindergarten/Preschool Subsidy $0.00 Out of Pocket Cost (what you pay) $0.00 ##### Matrix Out of Pocket Cost Is your CCS working for you? Check the out-of-pocket cost matrix per child against session lengths and weekly days below. Please note: The table in the matrix only shows out-of-pocket costs after CCS (Child Care Subsidy). Child 1 1 Day 2 Days 3 Days 4 Days 5 Days *Kindergarten/preschool subsidy applied: **$0.00** *This estimator provides an estimate only and is based on the following assumptions: - Accuracy and currency of family income information entered. - Family CCS entitlements include 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight. Please note your family may be entitled to less than 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight – if you are unsure we recommend you use the comprehensive CCS estimator in the link below. - Where 1-4 days of care is selected, full day sessions apply (being full operational hours of the centre, which can vary between centres). - Where 5 days of care is selected, 10-hour per day sessions apply (ie, 50 hours p/w to optimise 100 hours of CCS subsidised care across the fortnight). - Where a family’s CCS entitlements include less than 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight, please use the comprehensive CCS calculator as a guide. - NSW Preschool Fee Relief is effective from 1st January 2026.   Kindergarten/preschool subsidy is subject to State Government specific requirements including child age eligibility criteria and the delivery of the funded program by an Early Childhood Teacher on the day the subsidy is claimed by the family. Calculations herein are based on the assumption all eligibility criteria is met. Please contact your centre for detailed information. Read more Book a tour ### Send your results by email Enter your email address and we’ll send you a copy of your calculation results. ## What our families say 4.6(27 reviews) Source: Google Business Profile. Reviews are correct at the time of accessing this webpage. ### Jessica Edwards We feel incredibly lucky to have found this daycare. Our four-year-old has been attending for nearly three years, and our almost one-year-old has just started in the nursery. Our experience has been consistently positive throughout. While there.... **See more** We feel incredibly lucky to have found this daycare. Our four-year-old has been attending for nearly three years, and our almost one-year-old has just started in the nursery. Our experience has been consistently positive throughout. While there have been a few management changes over the years, the current manager, Kara, is truly exceptional. Her leadership is clearly reflected in the environment; staff feel supported, valued, and happy in their roles. Staff turnover is very low, and it’s obvious the educators genuinely love what they do. The relationships between educators and children are real, warm, and meaningful. The team is incredibly passionate and deeply child-centred in their approach. Starting a baby in care can be daunting, but my daughter’s first few days couldn’t have gone more smoothly. Jess and Deriane in the nursery went above and beyond to ensure she felt safe and settled, providing regular updates and calls, accommodating her allergy without hesitation, and even giving her a contact nap when she wasn’t ready to settle in the cot. That level of care and flexibility meant so much to us. My eldest has had interactions with every staff member, and we’ve only ever had positive experiences. She has genuinely special relationships with the educators, and her development has been so well nurtured over the years. We have never once doubted leaving our girls in their care. It’s such a comfort knowing they’re in a safe, nurturing, and genuinely loving environment. We are so grateful for the incredible educators who support our children every day. ### Emily Murray I have experienced many different daycares in Bendigo and this centre is without a doubt the absolute best. Every single educator has so much love and advocacy for every child. The children are supported to make choices and use independence and.... **See more** I have experienced many different daycares in Bendigo and this centre is without a doubt the absolute best. Every single educator has so much love and advocacy for every child. The children are supported to make choices and use independence and creativity through every routine and activity. I am so thrilled and lucky to have my child attend this centre and I am so grateful to every single educator for being such strong and dedicated people in his life. It is very clear that the team has a strong and supportive management. ### Laura-Anne Brennan When we first started a year ago, the center manager was very professional, and the educators were amazing. The center has had 3 center managers in the year. The recent manager is not approachable. My son's room has several new educators. It's hard.... **See more** When we first started a year ago, the center manager was very professional, and the educators were amazing. The center has had 3 center managers in the year. The recent manager is not approachable. My son's room has several new educators. It's hard for him to build a relationship. We left here because the center manager and assistant manager are not helpful at all. It's sad because the educators we've dealt with at the start, are not in my son's room anymore. My son was mixed with older children, who would hurt him. I witnessed an older boy, 3, push my 2yr old. Not happy. ### jess molly Absolutely love this centre! It’s a small centre with a beautiful family feel. My child adores his educators and the current centre manager is amazing! During our time at this centre we have noticed some very positive changes and feel that the team.... **See more** Absolutely love this centre! It’s a small centre with a beautiful family feel. My child adores his educators and the current centre manager is amazing! During our time at this centre we have noticed some very positive changes and feel that the team of educators within the centre are knowledgeable and caring. ### Emily Farrell It’s so heartwarming to see the strong relationships that my 2 yr old has built with his educators over the passed year. It makes leaving him so much easier, knowing he is in such capable and nurturing hands. I get a complete overview of his day,.... **See more** It’s so heartwarming to see the strong relationships that my 2 yr old has built with his educators over the passed year. It makes leaving him so much easier, knowing he is in such capable and nurturing hands. I get a complete overview of his day, along with adorable photos of the fun and learning they’ve had for the day. Most days he doesn’t even want to leave when I arrive to collect him! The Director Kara is also so approachable and productive, she’s always ready to help you out with questions or advice. Thank you Community Kids ❤️ ### Source: Google Business Profile G8 Education does not control or endorse the content of individual reviews. We encourage families to contact the centre directly for the most up-to-date information. ## Explore nearby G8 Education centres Looking for other great childcare, kindergarten or preschool options? Discover more G8 Education centres near you! - [Great Beginnings Kangaroo Flat 3.03km](https://www.greatbeginnings.com.au/our-centres/childcare-kangaroo-flat) - [First Grammar Bendigo 5.15km](https://www.firstgrammar.com.au/our-centres/childcare-bendigo) - [Napier Street Children's Centre 5.39km](https://www.nurtureone.com.au/our-centres/childcare-bendigo) ## Frequently asked questions ## A centre tour is a convenient way to experience the childcare centre of your choice and meet with our qualified educators at a time that is suitable for your family’s schedule. [Click here to book a tour online.](/book-a-tour) On the day of the tour, you can observe practices and interactions within the centre environment. You’ll be able to see all the rooms and playgrounds, ask the team members any questions you have in mind, and get all the information you need to make the best decision for your child. ## Enrolling is simple, and our Family Support Team will guide you through each step. First, find your local centre and book a tour so you can meet the team and explore the learning environment. If the centre is the right fit and a place is available, you’ll receive an enrolment offer for your child. If a place is not currently available in your child’s age group, we can add your child to the waitlist and keep you updated. To finalise your enrolment, you’ll complete an online enrolment form through a secure link sent by our Family Support Team. You’ll also need to provide key details and documents, including your child’s birth certificate, Medicare details, immunisation history statement and, if eligible, your Child Care Subsidy details. Before your child’s first day, you may be invited to attend a Stay and Play session. This gives your child time to explore the centre, meet their educators, and start feeling comfortable in their new environment. Once your paperwork is complete, your child is ready to start their early learning journey with us. [Read our step-by-step guide on how to enrol here.](/family-information/how-to-enrol) ## Starting child care is a big milestone, and a little preparation can help your child feel more comfortable and confident. Before your child’s first day, you can talk positively about their new centre, explain what their day might look like, and practise small routines such as packing their bag, saying goodbye, washing hands and sitting down for meals. You may also like to visit the centre with your child, meet their educators and ask our team about what to bring on the first day. When your child starts, our educators will take the time to get to know your child’s routine, interests, comfort items and individual needs. Settling in looks different for every child, so we work closely with families to help children feel safe, supported and ready to learn. [Learn more about our Settling-in Program.](/family-information/settling-in-program) ## Most of our child care and early education centres offer nappies and wipes, sunscreen and hats, as well as nutritious meals prepared by our in-house cook. Some centres also provide sheets and formula, so you may not need to remember to pack them. For nursery children, be sure to bring: nappy rash cream, dummies, bottles and teats, comfort toys or blankets, three spare outfits and spare socks. For toddlers and preschool or kindergarten-aged children, it’s best to bring: spare underwear, water bottle or sippy cup, sun hat, closed-toe shoes, two spare outfits and spare socks. Plus, anything else your individual child may need, such as breast milk, a sleeping bag, a comforter or medication. It’s best to speak to your centre of choice for a full list of everything included. ## Community Kids uses Xplor Home as our [family communication app](/family-information/family-communication). It is the best and easiest way to keep track of your child’s day. After you enrol your child with the centre, you can utilise Xplor Home to book child care days, manage your account, receive the photographs that capture your child’s learning, learn about your child’s progress, as well as keep up-to-date with upcoming centre events and important information. ## If your child shows signs of an infectious illness when they arrive at the centre or becomes sick during the day, you may be notified that you need to make alternative arrangements or pick up your child from the centre and keep them home until they are no longer infectious. While we understand that this can be inconvenient, Community Kids is committed to maintaining a healthy environment and reducing the risk of infection for all children. Under the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), families are allowed 42 absence days per child, per financial year. These can be taken for any reason, including public holidays and when children are sick, without requiring families to provide documentation. ## Contact us We look forward to welcoming your family. [Book a tour](/book-a-tour?centre=community-kids-golden-square) [Enquire now](/enquire-now?centre=community-kids-golden-square)